Do You Need a TPP Special Inspection If a Unit Is Unoccupied? Here’s What You Should Know
When planning construction work in a multi-unit building, one of the most common questions property owners ask is whether Tenant Protection Plan (TPP) Special Inspections are required—especially when the affected unit won’t be occupied during the renovation.
Understanding when TPP inspections are necessary can save owners time, money, and unnecessary stress throughout the construction process.
In this article, we break down the requirements and explain when a Weekly TPP Special Inspection is not needed.
What Is a TPP Special Inspection?
A Tenant Protection Plan (TPP) outlines how essential services—such as fire safety, utilities, egress, and more—will be maintained during construction in occupied buildings.
When a TPP is required, Weekly TPP Special Inspections ensure that safety measures remain in place and that no tenants are exposed to unsafe conditions.
These inspections are designed to protect residents, but what if the unit undergoing construction is completely empty?
Are TPP Special Inspections Required for Unoccupied Units?
Weekly TPP Special Inspections are not required if the unit will be unoccupied throughout construction, provided that two conditions are met:
1. The unit was occupied by the owner before construction began.
This ensures the space is considered a legitimate residential unit, not a vacant, unmaintained, or abandoned area.
2. The construction will not disrupt essential services for other occupied units.
Essential services include, but are not limited to:
Water supply
Heat
Gas
Electrical service
Fire protection systems
Egress pathways
Structural stability
If none of these services to neighbouring units will be impacted by your project, the Department of Buildings does not require Weekly TPP Special Inspections.
However, if your work does affect building, even temporarily you may still need a TPP and its associated inspections.
When You Do Need TPP Special Inspections
You will likely require TPP inspections if:
Any portion of the building remains occupied during construction
Utility shutdowns could impact other units
Hallways, stairs, or shared spaces are part of the work area
Safety measures (like fire alarms or sprinklers) are being altered
When in doubt, it’s always wise to consult a licensed professional or review NYC DOB guidelines to ensure full compliance.
Conclusion
If your construction project is limited to a unit that will remain unoccupied, and the work won’t disturb essential services for other residents, a Weekly TPP Special Inspections are not required.
If you need help evaluating your project’s requirements or preparing a compliant Tenant Protection Plan, feel free to reach out — we’re here to help ensure your project moves forward smoothly and safely.